Di Maria's return to the fold will no doubt delight boss Van Gaal, who has been without the £60m man for most of December, with the ex-Real Madrid ace featuring just once since limping out of the 3-0 win over Hull on November 29.

The Argentina attacker has scored three times in 12 appearances for United since moving to Old Trafford in August, and he'll be hoping to add to that tally in 2015 as the club's title bid ramps up.

Van Gaal reckons the return of Di Maria, along with other top stars like Marcos Rojo and Daley Blind will ensure his side close the gap to leaders Chelsea before the end of the campaign.

"We are improving every week and we shall be better in 2015," he said.

"Just watch. We are still in a process. I think the players understand the philosophy, and that's why we are improving - but we can improve more when we have all the players available.

“We can improve more when we have all the players available”

Louis van Gaal

"I think the fans were fantastic because we were in a moment with 10 matches and 13 points - that is not good, I think more weak than good. They have supported us is because of the fighting spirit of my team.

"We were not always ahead in matches but they have fought to the end and a lot of times with good success, so I think we can be satisfied about the points now – 36.

"We are in our goal, I think. What I have already said, we are improving every week. We can see 2015 with open eyes."